Led by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), in collaboration with the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the programme involved 233 static test runs. These were conducted over a six-week period at NASA’s Langley Research Centre in Virginia, with support from UK industry partners, including SME Gas Dynamics Ltd.
The trials focused on a high-speed air-breathing propulsion system designed to power a next-generation hypersonic cruise missile. By covering the full flight Mach number range – from supersonic to hypersonic – the testing confirmed the system’s capability and resilience.
The data collected in real time enabled design refinements and improved overall engine performance. This milestone moves the UK closer to delivering a hypersonic weapon technology demonstrator by 2030 through the Ministry of Defence’s Team Hypersonics (UK) programme.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “We are living in a more dangerous world and it has never been more important for us to innovate and stay ahead of our adversaries, equipping our forces with the technologies of the future.” He added, “This milestone moment on hypersonics research, supported by British scientists and British small businesses, demonstrates another crucial area where we are working in lockstep with the United States to bolster our Armed Forces and strengthen our deterrence.”
Dstl Chief Executive Paul Hollinshead also welcomed the progress, stating: “This milestone represents a critical advancement in the UK’s defence capabilities and reinforces our standing in the AUKUS hypersonic weapon development collaboration.” He continued, “The success of these tests highlights the UK’s commitment to technological leadership and innovation in this crucial area.”
The programme forms part of the UK Government’s broader Plan for Change, with a renewed focus on national security. It follows the Prime Minister’s recent announcement of the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War.
Source: UK Ministry of Defence.
